Celtic fans in scattergun approach with Rodgers, McGregor and Desmond in Hotline of fire as fans fear Lennon Mark II

It might seem a little early for trouble in paradise but Celtic crashing out of the Viaplay Cup to Kilmarnock has certainly caused problems for Brendan Rodgers.

The manager, skipper Callum McGregor and the Parkhead board were all in the firing line for furious supporters on the Hotline after the 1-0 defeat at Rugby Park. Joe MacEachen, Coatbridge, said; “Celtic's defeat is entirely down to Brendan Rodgers’ tactics of slow build up, pass the ball across the park from one side of the park and back again. This played right into Kilmarnock's hands who were happy to sit with two banks of four and deny Celtic space while hitting them on the break. If Rodgers persists with these tactics Celtic will have a fight to win anything this year and we can also forget about doing anything in the Champions League. I thought we were supposedly going for marquee signings this summer?”

Sean Crossey, Belfast, said: “Without sounding like the stereotypical fickle fan, I maintained that Rodgers was a terribly negative appointment. Embarrassingly unambitious. Why not try something new and let someone else with the right credentials take their chance. That board including Dermot Desmond are a bunch of amateurs. Ange was obviously a fluke. This stinks of Lennon II.”

Gerry Milligan, Renfrewshire, took aim at the skipper saying: “I don't buy into this ‘Callum McGregor can't be dropped because he's the captain’ line. If he's off form someone else can step in. He's been dire.” Kenny Wilson, Moffat, added: “Can’t say I’m surprised at Celtic losing as they’ve been less than average every game so far. Once again it’s their own fault with millions in the bank and dragging their feet not signing players who are badly needed. Hopefully this is a wake-up